Otmar Szafnauer has left the Aston Martin Formula One team, where he was chief executive officer and principal but recently fended off speculation he could be heading to Renault-owned rivals Alpine.

Silverstone-based Aston Martin, owned by Canadian Lawrence Stroll, said that a leadership team would take over until a replacement was appointed. There was no comment from Alpine.

“We would like to thank him for the service provided to the team over the past 12 years and wish him well for the future as he will undoubtedly take on new challenges,” Mercedes-powered Aston Martin said.

“Fortunately, we are led and managed by a strong group of individuals, and we are comfortable to take a little time to explore options before announcing a new team structure.” The season is due to start in Bahrain on March 20.